Bang Bang Chicken

 Ingredients

For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Garnish:
2 green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
– In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
– Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, toss to coat, and let marinate for 15-20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Coating:
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.

3. Coat & Fry the Chicken:
– Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
– Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture.
– Fry in batches for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
– Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
– In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.

5. Toss & Serve:
– Drizzle or toss the crispy chicken in the Bang Bang sauce.
– Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

6. Enjoy!